India on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the rising unrest in West Asia following US-Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation. New Delhi warned that any major disruption in the Gulf region would directly affect India’s economy, as its key trade and energy routes pass through this area.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said India had already voiced concern when the conflict began on February 28.
India Raises Alarm Over Escalating Conflict
The ministry stated that India had reacted at the very start of the crisis.
“Even at that time, India had urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation and prioritize the safety of civilians. Unfortunately, in the holy month of Ramadan, the situation in the region has deteriorated significantly and continuously,” it said.
India noted that instead of calming down, the situation has worsened steadily.
Safety of One Crore Indians a Priority
The government stressed that nearly one crore Indian citizens live and work in the Gulf region. Their security remains a top concern.
“There are almost one crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf region. Their safety and well-being is of utmost priority. We cannot be impervious to any development that negatively affects them. Our trade and energy supply chains also traverse this geography. Any major disruption has serious consequences for the Indian economy. As a country whose nationals are prominent in the global workforce, India is also firmly opposed to attacks on merchant shipping. Already, some Indian nationals have lost their lives or are missing as a result of such attacks in the last few days,” the statement said.
India underlined that it cannot ignore developments that threaten its citizens or economic interests.
Gulf Is a Vital Trade and Energy Corridor
The Gulf and the broader West Asian region form one of India’s most critical trade corridors. This route supports India’s energy imports, merchandise trade and maritime links. Any instability in this zone can disrupt oil supplies and shipping lanes that are essential for the Indian economy.
India Calls for Dialogue and Diplomacy
The statement observed that the conflict has not only intensified but also spread to other countries in the region.
“The destruction and deaths have mounted, even as normal life and economic activities come to a halt. As a proximate neighbour with critical stakes in the security and stability of the region, these developments evoke great anxiety,” it said.
India once again appealed for peaceful solutions.
Reiterating “strongly” the call for dialogue and diplomacy, India said, “We raise our voice clearly in favour of an early end to the conflict. Already, many lives have been regrettably lost and we express our grief in that regard.”
Embassies Assisting Indian Nationals
Indian missions in affected countries remain actively engaged. The ministry said embassies and consulates are in constant contact with Indian nationals and community groups. They are issuing advisories and providing assistance where needed.
“They have also extended all possible help to those stranded by the conflict. The Embassies and Consulates will continue to be proactive in addressing various consular aspects of this conflict,” the statement added.
Ongoing Diplomatic Engagement
India confirmed that it is coordinating with governments in the region and other major partners. “We are in touch with the Governments of this region as well as other key partners,” the statement said.
It also noted that Narendra Modi and S. Jaishankar have held discussions with their counterparts regarding the evolving situation. The government assured that it will continue to monitor developments closely and take necessary decisions to protect national interests.
Overall, India conveyed deep concern over the worsening conflict, highlighted risks to its citizens and economy, and firmly backed dialogue and diplomacy as the only path to stability.